So, you’re thinking about getting married at Boston City Hall? First off, congrats! Whether you’re planning a sweet and simple civil ceremony or eloping just the two of you (plus your favorite third wheel aka your photographer), a Boston City Hall wedding is one of the most low-stress and meaningful ways to tie the knot in the city.
As a Boston elopement & wedding photographer who’s captured more than a few courthouse “I do’s,” I’m here to break down everything you need to know about planning your City Hall wedding, plus give you some insider tips on making it extra special.
A bit of History about Boston City hall
Getting married at Boston City Hall means you’re leaning into a building that has been voted “World’s Ugliest” more times than anyone can count. But that’s actually why it’s a local wedding favorite. The architects back in the ’60s were obsessed with being “honest,” so they left all the raw concrete and “waffle” ceilings exposed instead of hiding them behind wallpaper or paint. For a wedding, this is a total win: you get these massive, dramatic shadows and sharp lines that make a white dress or a suit pop.
Why Get Married at Boston City Hall?
If the thought of planning a giant wedding makes your palms sweaty, you’re not alone. More and more couples are ditching the big guest list and opting for intimate, meaningful ceremonies—and Boston City Hall is the perfect place to do just that.
Here’s why couples love it:
Simple & stress-free: No months of planning or massive spreadsheets required.
Budget-friendly: Save your funds for travel, a new home, or a killer honeymoon.
Central location: Nestled in the heart of downtown Boston, it’s close to incredible photo spots and restaurants.
Intimate & meaningful: Whether it’s just the two of you or a few close guests, it’s all about you.
Side note: if you’re looking for a more relaxed city hall wedding experience, consider Cambridge. You might find my guide on Cambridge City Hall wedding photography helpful.
Step-by-step guide to getting married at Boston City Hall
Phase One: Pre-Ceremony Legal Stuff
You don’t just “get married” at City Hall; you first have to file a Marriage Intention.
The Appointment: You cannot walk in. You must book an appointment online to file your intentions in Room 213 (The Registry) in-person. Bring valid government-issued photo IDs (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
The Cost: It is $50 for the filing (cash, credit, or debit accepted).
The Name Change Fact: This is the most critical point. In Massachusetts, you must choose your new surname at the time of filing the intention. Once that paper is signed and the wedding happens, that becomes your legal name. Changing it later because you “changed your mind” requires a full court petition.
The Three-Day Wait: There’s a 3-day waiting period before you can have your ceremony (excluding weekends and holidays). If you apply on a Tuesday, your license is physically ready on Friday.
- The “I Need it Now” Loophole: If you need to marry sooner, you must go to a Probate or District Court for a Marriage Without Delay Waiver. This costs roughly $195 and requires a judge’s signature.
The 60-Day Clock: You can apply up to 60 days before your wedding. Just make sure it’s at least 3 days before your ceremony date. Your license is a “use it or lose it” document. It expires exactly 60 days from the day you filed the intention.
More details here: Boston.gov marriage license info
Phase Two: Choose Your Ceremony Vibe
Boston City Hall offers two distinct locations for the ceremony. Each has its own personality, rules, and price tag.
Option A: The City Clerk’s Office (Room 601)
Cost: $100.
Officiant: Usually the City Clerk or Assistant City Clerk.
Guest Capacity: Extremely tight. You are generally restricted to 2–4 guests.
Schedule: Mon/Tue: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM, Thu/Fri: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Option B: The Registry Department (Room 213)
Cost: $50.
Officiant: Often Paul Chong, the legendary and beloved Registrar.
Guest Capacity: More generous. This room can accommodate roughly 8–10 guests comfortably (some seated, some standing).
Schedule: Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM.
Note: City Hall typically does not perform ceremonies on Wednesdays. They use that day for administrative processing.
Phase Three: The Day-Of Logistics
Arrival: Aim to arrive 20 minutes early. If you are more than 10 minutes late, they may cancel your slot and charge a $25 “late fee” to reschedule.
Security: Enter through the Congress Street entrance. You will go through a full TSA-style scan.
Check-In: Go to your respective room (213 or 601). You’ll hand over your license and IDs.
Payment: While some kiosks take cards, the Registry and Clerk’s offices often prefer cash or debit cards. Always have $150 in cash on hand just in case systems are down.
The Ceremony: It lasts about 10–15 minutes. It includes the exchange of vows and rings (optional). You can bring your own vows, but keep them brief.
Witnesses: You do not need witnesses in Massachusetts. Only the couple and the officiant sign the license.
Phase Four: After the “I Do”
The Marriage Certificate: You are not handed a marriage certificate immediately after the ceremony. The officiant mails the license back.
Ordering Copies: You’ll need “Certified Copies” for insurance, social security, and passports. These are $12 each in person or $14 by mail. Wait about 7-10 days after the ceremony before trying to order them as it takes time for the officiant to register the marriage.
Helpful Tips for the Big Day
Parking is a Nightmare: Do not try to park on the street. Use the Government Center Garage (it’s expensive but right there). Even better, take the T (Green/Blue line) to Government Center.
Accessibility: The building is ADA-compliant. Use the elevators; the “stairs” are a workout and can be confusing.
Restrooms: They are public government restrooms. If you need a “getting ready” space with a nice mirror, do it at a hotel (like The Whitney or The Ames) before arriving.
Flowers: Bring a small bouquet or boutonniere if you want a pop of color. There isn’t a florist in the city hall building. Haymarket is right next door on Fridays/Saturdays if you need a quick, cheap bouquet, or hit Quincy Market.
Best Photo Spots Near Boston City Hall
Just because it’s a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you can’t have stunning portraits. Some of my favorite post-ceremony photo locations are steps away from City Hall:
City Hall steps & concrete backdrops – For a sleek, modern editorial look.
Government Center Plaza – Clean lines, modern architecture, and that just-married energy.
Beacon Hill – Historic charm, gas lamps, and cobblestone streets just a short walk away.
Boston Public Garden – Lush greenery and swan boats if you’re feeling romantic.
Old State House & Faneuil Hall – For a touch of Boston history in your portraits.
As your photographer, I can help plan a route that suits your vibe, low key, romantic, urban, or all of the above.
Sample Courthouse Wedding Timeline
Here’s an example of how your day could flow:
9:30 AM – Arrive at City Hall
10:00 AM – Ceremony
10:15–11:15 AM – Portraits around city hall
11:30 AM – Optional: celebrate with brunch at a local spot
Tips to Make Your City Hall Wedding Extra Special
Write each other personal vows to read before or after the ceremony.
Bring an extra set of outfits to change after your ceremony so you have variety in your photos.
Invite just your closest people and treat them to brunch or drinks after.
Hire a photographer you connect with.
Do You Really Need a Photographer for a City Hall Wedding?
You don’t need one, but having professional photos turns your quick ceremony into a lifelong memory. You might only be at City Hall for 10 minutes, but the portraits after? That’s where the magic happens.
If you’re looking for a Boston wedding photographer who knows the ins and outs of City Hall weddings (and can help guide your day), I’d love to chat. I’ll be there to document every grin, tear, and confetti toss.
Alternatives to Boston City Hall Wedding
If City Hall feels too “office-like” for you, there are two alternatives to consider:
Boston Public Library (Copley): They offer 1-hour “City Hall style” ceremonies on select Mondays for $200. Much more “fairytale” than the concrete hall. More details here.
One-Day Designation: Any friend or family member can get a “One-Day Designation” from the Governor’s office ($25) to marry you anywhere in the city. This allows for more flexibility at any of your favorite Boston location without the “office” feel. More details here.
Let’s Make It Official
Getting married at Boston City Hall is simple but meaningful. Whether you’re eloping or inviting a small crew, your love story deserves to be captured beautifully.
